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Maximilian Kleinert
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Doctoral Student in Molecular Physiology of Exercise and Nutrition German Institute of Human Nutrition in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Remuneration according to TV-L, level 13 (65%) plus annual special payment and company pension scheme; position available for 3 years.
Deadline
Nov 25, 2026
Country
Germany
University
German Institute of Human Nutrition
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About this position
The Department of Molecular Physiology of Exercise and Nutrition (MPEN) at the German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE) in Potsdam-Rehbrücke is offering a doctoral student position focused on how short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are regulated and metabolized in the liver.
The project examines hepatic SCFA uptake and metabolic fate under different nutritional states, including fasting and feeding, as well as in pathological conditions such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The work combines mouse models, cell culture systems, and state-of-the-art metabolic approaches to understand how SCFAs contribute to liver function and metabolic disease.
The doctoral researcher will study whether SCFAs are used as energy substrates, incorporated into anabolic pathways, or involved in gene regulation through epigenetic mechanisms. The experimental work includes in vivo metabolic studies, stable isotope tracing, metabolic flux analysis, primary hepatocyte experiments, and molecular and biochemical analyses of tissues and biological samples.
The project is embedded in a research environment with intensive scientific support, close collaboration with cooperating institutions, excellent technical equipment, and a broad range of experimental methods. The position is part of the department led by Prof. Dr. Maximilian Kleinert.
Funding details
Remuneration according to TV-L, level 13 (65%) plus annual special payment and company pension scheme; position available for 3 years.
What's required
A master's degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology, nutritional sciences, or a related discipline is required. Prior hands-on experience with stable isotope tracing and metabolic flux analysis is a key requirement. Applicants should have a strong background in intermediary metabolism, particularly hepatic glucose, lipid, or fatty acid metabolism, practical experience with cell culture techniques and molecular and biochemical assays, and experience with mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and isotope labeling data analysis as an advantage. Strong analytical skills, scientific curiosity, the ability to plan and conduct experiments independently, excellent English communication skills, and a collaborative approach to research are expected.
How to apply
Prepare a single PDF containing your cover letter, CV, copies of degrees/certificates, and references. Email the application to [email protected] before the deadline. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Maximilian Kleinert at [email protected].
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Professors
Prof. Dr. at German Institute of Human Nutrition
Germany
Research Interests
Exercise Physiology
Biochemistry
Mouse Model
Biology
Medical Science
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.